Lawmakers Seek To Block Military Aid to Syrian Rebels

They say Congress, not the executive branch, has the power to declare war

WASHINGTON – Today, Representative Massie and nine other House members introduced legislation to block unauthorized U.S. military aid to Syrian rebels.

Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution gives Congress—not the President—the power to declare war. But the President recently announced his intention to send arms to the rebels in Syria fighting President Bashar al-Assad's regime. H.R. 2507, the War Powers Protection Act of 2013, prohibits any military assistance to Syrian opposition forces unless Congress issues a formal declaration of war pursuant to Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution.

"Since our national security interests in Syria are unclear, we risk giving money and military assistance to our enemies," said Rep. Massie.  "Additionally, all military action must be authorized by Congress. The American people deserve open debate by their elected officials."